How to Find Metro Stations and Plan Subway Routes with Amap
Last updated: 2026-04-30
China's metro systems are fast, cheap, and extensive — but navigating them without local knowledge is tricky. Station names are in Chinese, exits are numbered (not named), and transfer stations can have dozens of exits. 
Finding the Nearest Metro Station
Tap the search bar in Amap and type "metro station" or "subway station." Amap shows the nearest stations with their distance and the lines they serve. Tap any station to see which lines stop there and the station's location on the map.
Alternatively, zoom in on the map — metro lines are shown as colored lines with station dots. Tap any station dot to see its name and lines.
Planning a Subway Route
1. Search for your destination
Tap the search bar and type your destination. Tap the correct result from the list.
2. Tap Directions and select Transit
Tap the blue Directions button → select the transit icon (bus/metro symbol). Amap shows route options.
3. Filter for metro-only routes
Tap the filter icon and select 'Metro only' or 'Fewest transfers' to prioritize subway routes over bus routes. This is useful in cities with extensive metro networks.
4. Review the route details
Tap a route to see the full breakdown: which station to board, which line, how many stops, where to transfer, and which exit to use at the destination station.
5. Start navigation
Tap Start. Amap guides you step by step: walk to the station, enter at the correct entrance, board the correct line, and exit at the right station and exit number.
Understanding Exit Numbers
Chinese metro stations have numbered exits (Exit A, B, C, D or Exit 1, 2, 3...). The exit number matters — the wrong exit can put you on the opposite side of a large intersection from your destination.
Amap always specifies which exit to use. When you arrive at the destination station, look for the exit number on the signs overhead. Follow the signs to that exit number.
Screenshot the exit number before going underground — you'll lose data signal in many stations. Knowing "Exit B2" before you descend means you don't need to check your phone underground.
Checking Metro Fares
Amap shows the fare for each transit route before you start. Metro fares in China are distance-based and very affordable — most trips within a city cost ¥3–8. The fare is shown in the route summary.
Practical Tips
- Line colors: Each metro line has a color and number. Amap uses the same colors as the physical station signs, making it easy to match what you see on screen with the signs in the station.
- Last train times: Amap shows if a route requires catching a late train. Check the last train time for your line if traveling after 10pm — most metro systems stop around 11pm–midnight.
- Crowded stations: Major transfer stations (like Beijing's Guomao or Shanghai's People's Square) can be very crowded during rush hour. Amap's route options sometimes suggest less crowded alternatives.
- Airport metro: Most major Chinese airports have metro connections. Search the airport name in Amap and select transit directions to see the metro option.